Pig Beach

Pig Beach’s pork-centric barbecue, outdoor bars, string lights and picnic-style seating suggest a day at the seashore, even if the nearest water source is the Gowanus Canal. The seasonal, 150-seat hangout is set up in a parking lot; if it rains there’s an indoor area for shelter. Manning the smokers are all-star pitmasters whose resumes include Balthazar, Ed’s Lobster Bar and Del Posto. Dig into meaty baby back ribs, pulled pork sandwiches, charred chicken wings and sausage stuffed with provolone and hot cherry peppers. It’s a party for everybody—dating couples, the college crowd and families with babies and dogs in tow.